Zimpapers Logo

ZIMBABWE Cricket chairman Wilson Manase and managing director Wilfred Mukondiwa have sent messages of condolence to their Cricket Australia counterparts Wally Edwards and James Sutherland following the death of cricketer Phillip Hughes.

The ZC chairman said the Zimbabwe cricket fraternity has fond memories of Hughes when he came for an A-team triangular one-day series in 2011, which also involved South Africa, and for another triangular series, this time with the senior team in August this year, which also included South Africa.

Manase said during both occasions, Zimbabweans enjoyed interacting with Hughes both on and off the field of play.

“We got to know of him as a fine cricketer and an even finer young man,” said Manase.

“Any death is a loss, but when it is the death of such a talent and at just 25, it is indeed a great loss, not only to his family and CA, but the world of cricket as a whole.”

Manase expressed the solidarity of the local cricket community with counterparts in Australia during what he described as “this very trying time, especially for the game in Australia.”

Former Sports Minister David Coltart also sent a message of condolence to the Australian cricket family.

“My deepest condolences go to the family and friends of Australian Test cricketer Phil Hughes who died today (yesterday),” Coltart said.

“I also extend my sympathy to James Sutherland of Cricket Australia who spoke so well today (yesterday) about Phil Hughes.

“I will never forget the compassionate understanding he showed me in June 2010 when I met him in Melbourne to persuade Australia to resume playing cricket with Zimbabwe.

“I know I speak on behalf of all cricket lovers in Zimbabwe today when I say that we are deeply shocked and saddened by this tragedy.” — Sports Reporter/Zimcricket.